Constructing The Sexual Crucible Introduction

The sexual crucible is a treatment approach based on intimacy and eroticism. It focuses on a non-reciprocity model of intimacy with sexuality as a vehicle for growth. It is operationalized through sexual behavior and helps people reach their sexual potential (p. xvi). Schnarch regards three approaches to intimacy, definitional, descriptive, and clinical. Intimacy discussions need to be clear on definition and yet the concept is casually used. Definitions vary and are approached from individual phenomenology, interpersonal behavior, and social purpose. Dimensions such as intellectual, emotional, and physical, during which intimacy occurs, are considered. Although all of these aspects are important, they may not accurately reflect what is meant by intimacy (pp. 90-92).

Descriptive models of intimacy are usually based on observations of social exchanges, couples formi

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apply and offer no help with understanding or learning the intimacy process. The ability to share one's core self with another can be experienced in a therapeutic setting. The crucible modality allows for intimacy expression and growth. A crucible is defined as a vessel in which metamorphic processes occur; the therapeutic crucible is a means of therapeutic solution. The goal of this modality is to help the couple go through the drama rather than to end or avoid it; therapy is the crucible containing the couple's drama with the marriage dynamics fueling the crucible. The sexual aspect focuses on ways couples act out individual, dyadic, and family dynamics in the sexual dimension of the marital relationship (p. xv). A crucible participates in the metamorphosis by containing the reaction so changes can occur; the nonreactive therapist and the therapeutic alliance function as the nonreactive container as the patient transforms (pp. 159-160). Construction of the crucible includes introducing the couple to the concept of sexuality as a window and forming two separate, interlocking individual conflicts or crucibles. The crucible is initially experienced in the therapist's office with couple interactions, then expands to the
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